He recommends homeowners peruse home magazines and books to compile a file of aspects you really like, so the architect can tailor your home to your own personal interests and tastes.

Many decisive people have a difficult time orally conveying their wants. With a vast selection of colors, finishes and fixtures to choose from - exterior and interior - the layers of decisions become easier when the homeowner is organized and prepared. Having a file of photos is a huge timesaver, Mark said.

Even if you plan your home to take you through retirement, an important aspect to consider is resale. The investment focus is threefold, Mark noted, with the master bedroom, master bath and kitchen providing the highest "wow" factors. "That's where people go when they're looking to buy," he said.

The living area is an easy space to tailor. The trend among Northern Arizonans is away from formal areas and toward open floor plans with the kitchen, dining and living rooms flowing freely.

Cabinets, windows, doors, woodwork, and kitchen and bath fixtures all are personal choices a good architect will place on a shop drawing and provide the builder, Mark said.

Builders often advise homeowners about sidings and finishes, but Mark makes specific recommendations for affordable standards in any custom home. One is a home-automation system. This consists of security, lighting control, distributed audio, and systems control for heating and cooling.

To set any scene in the home, from displaying art to preparing for a party or even a cleaning crew, "you don't want to turn on a dozen different light switches." Also, being able to control systems remotely by cell phone or computer before arriving home is helpful. "Almost" standards include a central vacuum system and automated blinds. Savvy planners place every electrical outlet. "A good electrician will walk the client through the home when the sticks are up, so every outlet is laid out. In the ideal situation, you layout the living room with furniture (on paper) so you can decide on floor outlets," Mark said. "This is a nominal expense and so easy to handle throughout the construction process before the slab is poured and walls are finished." He tells clients not to compromise on internal systems, such as plumbing and structures. "You wouldn't want a sub-par organ if you had an organ transplant," was his analogy.

And just like a perfect body, a perfect home requires quality materials and planning to achieve.